As they wracked their brains for any recollection of her among Eleywood's elite, no one could place this mysterious woman. Yet her graceful demeanor and poised expression suggested she came from an exceptional background.

Under the weight of curious stares, Catherine maintained her composure, her gaze steady and her demeanor professional. She focused on her role as Jerrold's assistant, skillfully deflecting the advances of countless women who sought to approach him.

Among the attendees was Richard Lin, who spotted Jerrold in the crowd. He excused himself from his group and approached, glass in hand.

When he noticed Catherine by Jerrold's side, he raised an eyebrow, a knowing look flashing in his eyes.

"Well, well, " Richard thought, “so much for all that talk about keeping his distance from women. That didn't last long."

Richard raised his glass in greeting, directing a subtle nod toward Catherine.

She recognized him immediately. Although she had no particular liking for him, she maintained a polite smile, mindful of appearances.

"Jerrold, care for a drink over there?"

Richard suggested, motioning toward a quieter corner. Jerrold, catching the silent exchange between Richard and Catherine, remained impassive. However, when Richard extended his invitation, Jerrold glanced at Catherine.

"You stay here and look around."

Catherine nodded, understanding that certain conversations were not meant for her ears. She made her way to the refreshment table, where she picked up a fork and took a small bite of cake.The sweetness provided a moment of comfort amidst the charged atmosphere.

But her brief reprieve was interrupted. Behind her, Catherine heard the click of high heels approaching. Turning, she saw Catherine Li, flanked by several young women dressed to impress.

Catherine Li had arrived early, not only to find an opportunity to approach Jerrold but also to network with the other wealthy young women in attendance.

Initially, she had struggled to make an impression on them. But when Jerrold and Catherine entered the hall together, her moment came.

The other women were instantly curious about the mysterious woman at Jerrold's side. Sensing her chance, Catherine Li seized the opportunity to ingratiate herself with them. Now, with Jerrold momentarily out of sight, she led the group straight to Catherine.

"Well, Catherine, " Catherine Li sneered, her voice dripping with mockery, "I suppose it's been so long since you've attended an event of this caliber that you've forgotten how to behave.

Sneaking bites of food like that—how embarrassing. Then again, what else can we expect? These are the kinds of delicacies we buy without a second thought, but for you, this might be your one and only chance to try them." She paused, her tone growing sharper. "Of course, I understand. But Let me remind you-while it's fine if you embarrass yourself, and worse yet, how dare you disgrace Mr. Harris like this?"

The other women, many of whom harbored their own ambitions involving Jerrold, immediately directed their attention toward Catherine.

If she dared to appear by Jerrold's side, she should have been prepared for their hostility.

Catherine Li's eyes glinted with malice. She had been waiting for this moment—to make Catherine understand her place and accept the fate she was born into.

Faced with the wary and scrutinizing gazes of the wealthy daughters, Catherine remained utterly indifferent.

Such petty tricks—Catherine had grown up seeing these countless times and found them utterly tiresome to entertain anymore.

These young ladies hadn't yet realized they were being used as pawns.

Well, if that was the case, she might as well help them see the truth.